Community Helper - Support for Elders with Emigrant Family

Introduction

Hong Kong Christian Service (HKCS) conducted the 'Survey on Service Needs of Elders with Emigrant Children in Hong Kong' from November 2022 to February 2023.  The survey found that 36.0% of elders had children who had emigrated in or after 2020, of whom 63.0% of the children were their 'primary caregivers' 79.5% of elders with emigrant children are at 'high risk' of social isolation and 69.9% of elders with emigrant children were prone to depression.  The survey also found that strengthening the neighbourhood support network to provide 'life support services' to the elders in need would enable them to live in the community in peace.

Therefore, HKCS launched "Community Helper - Support for Elders with Emigrant Family" in August 2023, for a year.  This project aims at enhancing needy elders' connection with community resources and matching appropriate services for them to facilitate better adjustment to changes and improve their quality of life.  The objectives of the project are as follows:

1. To mobilise volunteers and corporate partners for establishing a neighbourhood support network to enhance support for "elders with emigrant family".
2. To establish a district-based support network for serving the living needs of "elders with emigrant family".
3. To enhance the connection between community support service and "elders with emigrant family" and provide appropriate service matching. 

Service Target

Elders whose children have emigrated or will emigrate

Service Contents

1. Service Hotline：6849 8307
2. Service needs assessment (home visits will be conducted if necessary)
3. Providing community service information and referrals
4. Matching "Community Helper" services as needed, services including:

• "Smart Tech Tutorial" - Smartphone applied learning
• "Festival Celebration" - Caring phone calls and visits
• "Community Tour" - Connecting with social service units 
• "Handy Buddy" - Simple home repairs
• Emergency crisis intervention and service referrals

5. Volunteer recruitment and training

(Individuals and organisations who are interested in caring for "elders with emigrant family" are welcome to contact us.)

Major Service Areas

Kwun Tong District and Shamshuipo District

Service Charge

Please contact our staff on 6849 8307 for details.

Application and Withdrawal

Please contact our staffs on 6849 8307 or visit our centre in person for application and withdrawal procedures.

Others

Survey on Service Needs of Elders with Emigrant Children in Hong Kong